Storing Fresh Ginger

What's the best way to store fresh ginger?

— Lucia Westberg, Brooklyn

I've tried keeping ginger in my fridge immersed in sherry and vodka, uncovered in the veggie drawer, and tucked inside a bag — paper or plastic. I've also frozen the unpeeled root. The winner for flavor and longevity: refrigerated in a self-sealing bag with all the air pressed out. To store a large chunk (called a hand), buy ginger that isn't wet, moldy, or withered; leave the peel on and blot off any moisture. It should keep for a couple of months. To use, simply cut off a "finger" of ginger, re-bag the rest, press out the air, and reseal.